Today, the Tennessee Legislature passed HB 241, a bill to extend cocktails to-go in the state until July 1, 2023. This measure heads to Governor Bill Lee’s desk for his signature.
“Bars and restaurants in Tennessee have leaned on cocktails to-go throughout the pandemic as a lifeline to keep their doors open and generate revenue,” said Kristi Brown, Distilled Spirits Council of the United States Senior Director of State Government Relations. “This legislation extends this critical measure and provides additional support for Tennessee businesses as they work to get back up and running. We thank the legislature for passing this business- and consumer-friendly measure.”
Background:
More than 30 states began allowing restaurants and/or bars to sell cocktails to-go as a COVID economic relief measure. Iowa, Ohio, Kentucky, Wisconsin, Montana, Arkansas and the District of Columbia have all made COVID-era cocktails to-go measures permanent. Dozens of other states are also considering legislation to extend or make permanent cocktails to-go measures.
The distilled spirits industry is committed to responsibility and encourages moderation for adults who choose to drink alcohol. Cocktails to-go are intended for home consumption. Laws governing alcohol consumption must always be observed.